The Radio Hall of Fame: Honoring Legends Behind the Microphone

The Legacy of Radio: A Reflection of 100 Years of Broadcasting Excellence

Radio has shaped culture, news, entertainment, and community discourse for over a century. From its earliest broadcasts in the 1920s to today’s digital streaming platforms, radio has remained a powerful force in communication. Institutions such as the Radio Hall of Fame (RHOF) continue to honor the pioneers who made this medium an integral part of American history.

But who truly started it all? What were the defining moments that established radio as a mass communication phenomenon? And how do we honor the voices behind the microphone—especially those who broke barriers, influenced generations, and revolutionized broadcasting?

Let’s explore the history, legacy, and impact of radio broadcasting and the legendary figures who shaped the airwaves.

The First Radio Stations: Who Was Truly First?

While radio experiments date back to the late 19th century, the first official broadcasts didn’t take place until 1920. Two stations, in particular, claim the title of the first radio station in the United States:

• WWJ (formerly 8MK) – Detroit, Michigan
• KDKA – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Both played a monumental role in launching radio as an industry.

WWJ (8MK): The First Broadcaster

In August 1920, the Detroit News, led by publisher William E. Scripps, launched 8MK, later renamed WWJ. The station was the first to deliver regular news broadcasts, pioneering scheduled programming rather than sporadic transmissions.

With the technical expertise of Michael Lyons, who installed and operated the station’s transmitter, and the voice of Elton Plant, WWJ set a precedent for daily radio broadcasts—giving audiences up-to-date news, weather, and government announcements.

KDKA: The First Licensed Commercial Station

On November 2, 1920, KDKA, operated by Westinghouse Electric Corporation, became the first licensed commercial radio station. Under the leadership of Frank Conrad, KDKA’s inaugural broadcast featured the Harding-Cox presidential election results, proving that radio could be used as an immediate information source.

While WWJ was first to regularly broadcast, KDKA was first to receive official commercial licensing, pioneering advertising-based radio business models.

These two stations set the foundation for radio’s rapid expansion, proving that live, real-time broadcasts could engage and inform communities like never before.

The Evolution of Radio Broadcasting

The 1920s and 1930s saw radio stations multiply across the country, giving birth to news programming, drama serials, comedy shows, and music broadcasts.

By the 1940s, radio had become the primary medium for entertainment and information, shaping cultural moments like:

• Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Fireside Chats
• Live War Correspondence during World War II
• The Golden Age of Radio (dramas, variety shows, and comedy programs)

Then came the rise of FM radio in the 1960s, talk radio in the 1970s and 1980s, and today’s podcasts and satellite streaming, proving that radio continues to evolve with time.

The Radio Hall of Fame: Honoring Broadcasting’s Greatest Voices

Founded in 1988, the Radio Hall of Fame (RHOF) recognizes the individuals who shaped and revolutionized the medium. It honors on-air personalities, executives, and innovators who have influenced local, national, and international radio broadcasting.

Where Is the RHOF Located? Can You Visit It?

The RHOF is based in Chicago, Illinois, and is part of the Museum of Broadcast Communications (MBC). Historically, the RHOF gallery was located on the second floor of the Museum, housed at 360 N. State Street, Chicago.

However, in 2017, the museum underwent changes, including hosting a traveling exhibit (Saturday Night Live: The Experience), which temporarily displaced the RHOF gallery. While the exhibit closed in 2019, the RHOF partially restored its physical presence, though the museum has continued restructuring.

While radio enthusiasts may not find a fully dedicated RHOF building today, the Museum of Broadcast Communications still serves as an essential historical site for radio lovers.

Who Oversees the RHOF Today?

The Radio Hall of Fame is run by a Nominating Committee composed of industry professionals, executives, and academics who oversee the selection process. Inductees are chosen based on public nominations and industry voting, ensuring radio’s most influential voices are recognized annually.

Notable Inductees

The RHOF has honored many of radio’s most legendary figures, including:

• Casey Kasem – The beloved host of American Top 40, famous for his smooth delivery and heartfelt dedications.
• Robert W. Morgan – A Los Angeles radio legend known for KHJ Boss Radio and shaping rock radio formats.
• Dick Purtan – A Detroit broadcasting icon celebrated for his humor and charity work.
• Wolfman Jack – The raspy-voiced DJ who shaped rock-and-roll radio’s rebellious personality.
• Dick Clark – The influential host of American Bandstand, who bridged radio and television stardom.
• Paul Harvey – The famous ABC Radio broadcaster known for his signature phrase, “And now, for the rest of the story.”

Each of these personalities, as well as all broadcasting members enshrined in the hall, defined and shaped radio’s golden era, influencing generations with their style, storytelling, and connection with audiences.

You can explore the full list of Radio Hall of Fame inductees and their contributions on the official RHOF website here.

Trailblazers in Black Radio – Including the First Black Broadcaster

The RHOF has also recognized legendary Black radio personalities who broke barriers and reshaped broadcasting, including:

• Tom Joyner – Host of The Tom Joyner Morning Show, blending music and cultural discussions.
• Donnie Simpson – A trailblazing radio DJ and TV personality.
• Charlamagne Tha God – A modern voice in talk radio through The Breakfast Club.
• Jack “The Rapper” Gibson – An early force in Black radio development.

Jack L. Cooper – The First Black Radio Broadcaster

The first Black radio broadcaster in U.S. history was Jack L. Cooper.

• Born: September 18, 1888, in Memphis, Tennessee.
• Died: January 12, 1970, in Chicago, Illinois, at age 81.
• Burial: Lincoln Cemetery, Blue Island, Cook County, Illinois.

Cooper made history when he launched The All-Negro Hour in 1929 on WSBC in Chicago, marking the first radio program exclusively featuring Black talent with content covering music, comedy, and drama.

His contributions extended beyond entertainment. He became Chicago’s first Black sportscaster, newscaster, and radio executive, producing over 40 hours of weekly programming, ensuring Black voices were heard on air.

Cooper remains the undisputed patriarch of Black radio, paving the way for today’s diverse voices in broadcasting.

Radio’s Timeless Impact

Over 100 years since its inception, radio remains a cornerstone of communication, evolving with technology while maintaining its core values—informing, entertaining, and connecting communities.

Whether through historic broadcasts, hall of fame inductees, or trailblazing voices, radio’s legacy continues to shape culture, proving that the power of sound transcends time.